Job Description: HSE Manager - Solar & BESS (Utility Scale)
Location: UK-wide with travel to project sites
Contract Type: Permanent / Full-Time
Sector: Renewable Energy - Solar PV & Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced HSE Manager to oversee all health, safety, and environmental aspects of utility-scale Solar PV and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects across the UK. You will be responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring HSE strategies, ensuring compliance with legislation, CDM regulations, and company standards while driving a strong safety culture across all project phases.

As the HSE lead, you will work closely with project managers, site teams, subcontractors, and clients to ensure safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible project execution.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and implement HSE policies, procedures, and management systems across utility-scale Solar PV and BESS projects.
Ensure compliance with UK HSE legislation, CDM regulations, ISO standards, and company requirements.
Lead site inspections, audits, and incident investigations, ensuring corrective and preventive actions are implemented.
Provide HSE training, inductions, and toolbox talks to site teams, contractors, and stakeholders.
Act as the HSE representative in project and client meetings, promoting best practice and continuous improvement.
Monitor and report on HSE performance metrics, providing clear updates to senior management.
Manage environmental compliance, including waste management, pollution prevention, and sustainability initiatives.
Proactively identify risks and hazards, implementing mitigation strategies to reduce incidents and delays.
Support project teams with emergency response planning and crisis management.
Foster a strong safety-first culture, ensuring buy-in across all levels of the organisation.

Skills & Experience Required

Proven experience as an HSE Manager on large-scale renewable energy, power, or infrastructure projects (Solar PV/BESS preferred).
Strong working knowledge of CDM 2015 regulations, UK HSE law, and ISO 45001/14001 standards.
Experience conducting site audits, risk assessments, and incident investigations.
Excellent communication, leadership, and training skills, with the ability to influence at all levels.
Proficiency in preparing HSE reports, dashboards, and KPIs for senior stakeholders.
NEBOSH Diploma (or equivalent) - essential.
Membership of IOSH or other relevant professional body (GradIOSH/CMIOSH preferred).
Full UK driving licence and flexibility to travel nationwide.